Zhifu, a Finance Lecturer at the University of Brighton, holds a PhD in Economics from Coventry University, specializing in macroeconomics and fintech. She also earned an MSc in Investment Management from Coventry University and a BA in Business Management and Mathematics from the University of Sheffield.

Before joining the University of Brighton, Zhifu gained research experience at the University of Cambridge and Aston University. With extensive teaching experience, she has instructed courses in economics, business, finance, and fintech at both the University of Cambridge and Coventry University, catering to diverse student cohorts including undergraduate, MBA, and exclusive students. Zhifu has been recognized with an Associate Fellowship for HEA and has contributed as a subject-matter expert in finance, while also serving as a consultant assistant across various institutions.